Boehlert: Why did they score it for Bush?

Eric Boehlert, author of Lapdogs: How the Press Rolled Over for Bush, looks into the widespread MSM (mainstream media) comments that Bush "won" the week on Iraq following the killing of El Zarqawi and the sneak-in, sneak-out state visit to Maliki, and the Republican "stay the course" House resolution.

Boehlert cites some of the fawning coverage in a guest column on Eric Alterman's blog.

As you may have noticed, Iraq violence hasn't abated—the foe has thrown some horrific new throes at Iraqis and U.S. troops, two American soldiers were brutally tortured and mutilated, and the public strongly backs the Democratic proposals for withdrawal.

The most innocent explanation (excuse?) for the press behavior is that "Bush down in Polls" isn't news anymore, but "Bush Bounces Back" has a bit of the "Man Bites Dog" in it. Imagine if you can that Bush's poll numbers actually did rebound and missed calling the turn. Embarrassing much? Oh, yes.

Surely it's more embarrassing--nay, a source of professional shame--to fall for Rove's feints again and again and again and again? The press apparently enjoys playing Charlie Brown to Karl Rove's Lucy and can be counted on to kick at the disappearing football.

Just once, I'd like to see them play Rocket J. Squirrel to Rove's Bullwinkle. "But that trick never works."

Boehlert notes with surprise that right wing MSNBC bloviator, Chuck Scarborough managed to see through the Rove Reality Distortion Field: "This sound like a complete loser for Republicans come this fall."